16 Homemade Dog Food Toppers For Picky Eaters (Get Fido Excited For Mealtimes)

Is your dog picky about the food he or she eats? While my own dogs would gobble up anything I put in their food bowl, I know a lot of pet parents who gets frustrated trying to get a pup to eat when they turn their noses up at each meal.

One perfect solution that just about works everytime is homemade dog food toppers for picky eaters. These food enhancers can range from cooked meat, to vegetables and fruits such as: unsalted broth, cooked chicken, carrots, blueberries, apples, shredded cheese, yogurt, and more.

Getting your canine companion to finish his food can be frustrating. Thankfully, there are some delicious dog food topper options you can add to your dog’s meals. These toppings entice your furry friend to finish every bite. 

Delicious Single-Ingredient Homemade Dog Food Topper Ideas

Picky eaters can make feeding stressful. Sometimes pups like these won’t be enticed with even the best fresh dog food unless it has good food toppers. The following are some delicious single ingredient toppers you can add to your dog’s diet. You likely have some of these on hand. If not, check out some of the best dog food delivery service companies that offer toppers along with custom meal subscriptions.

Blueberries

Blueberries will make most dogs go crazy with excitement. In addition to tasting mouthwatering to our furry friends, blueberries are also packed with essential vitamins, like A, C, and K. 

Cucumbers

Many dog owners are surprised to learn cucumbers are an excellent addition to dog food. The crunch and refreshing flavor are what dogs crave. Cucumbers hydrate your dog and give him beneficial potassium and magnesium. 

Olive Oil

Olive oil is another dog food topper that will entice your picky eater to dig in [1]. This oil is considered a delicacy to dogs, and it helps give your dog a strong and beautiful coat. You should give your dog no more than one teaspoon full per 20 pounds. Another healthy substitute is coconut oil.

Fish Oil

Fish oil is excellent for dogs. The best fish oil for dogs is full of omega-3 fatty acids that are perfect for dogs with flaky skin. Adding a few drops to your dog’s kibble will make it more enticing and add nutrients.  

Shredded Cheese

Dogs, like people, love cheese. Just like humans, dogs only need cheese in moderation. To avoid excess fat, choose mozzarella or goat cheese. Sprinkle a little on top of your dog’s food for a tasty treat. 

Cooked and Unseasoned Meat

Every dog loves meat. Cooked unseasoned meat is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B, zinc, and protein. Choose cooked chicken, beef, pork, or turkey to make your dog happy with his food. 

Unsalted Broth

The unsalted, unseasoned broth is also an excellent addition to any dog’s food. To make it even more nutritious choose bone broth which is packed with nutrients. Cook your own for the highest level of nutritional value. 

Yogurt

Dogs love yogurt, and it is highly beneficial to their gut health. Yogurt is packed full of probiotics that aid your dog’s digestion. Choose plain unsweetened yogurt as it’s more friendly to your dog’s tummy. Greek yogurt adds protein. 

Peanut Butter

What dog doesn’t love peanut butter? If your dog is a peanut butter fanatic, consider adding it as a dog food topper. Make sure you use dog-safe peanut butter that contains no salt or sugar. Some peanut butter contains xylitol which is highly toxic to dogs. 

Cooked Green Beans

Most dogs love cooked vegetables, and green beans are perfect. Green beans are packed with nutrients like Vitamins A, C, and K. Before serving them to your dog cut the green beans up into small pieces, and steam them until they are soft. 

Pureed Pumpkin

Pumpkin is food all dogs should eat. Similar to sweet potatoes, it is full of vitamins and fiber, which can help your dog’s digestive system. Add a spoonful of pure pumpkin. Do not purchase pumpkin pie filling. 

Cooked Eggs

Whether scrambled or boiled, dogs love eggs, and they are filled with protein. Eggs contain iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and essential amino acids. Never feed your dog raw eggs because they could cause salmonella poisoning. 

Grated Raw Carrots

Carrots are a veggie you do not have to worry about cooking. Carrots are low in calories and full of Vitamin A. If you plan on serving them raw to your dog, grate them finely or use a food processor then put on top of the kibble. 

Watermelon Chunks

Watermelon is perfect during the summer because it will cool your dog down and give him nutritional benefits. Do not feed your dog the rind or seeds. A little watermelon on top of his food gives hydration to your dog. Carrots are also great to add to homemade dog food for heart disease.

Cored & Sliced Apples

Apples are another fruit you should consider giving your dog. Core the apples and slice them into small pieces. Apples are full of fiber for your dog’s digestive tract. They are also a good source of Vitamins C and A. 

Nutritious Dog Treats

The best dog treats are typically the most nutritious options. If you do not have any of the toppers above on hand, crumble some nutritious dog treats on type of the kibble. Be careful when using treats because they can pack on the calories. Avoid giving too many treats as well as this could be a reason why a dog won’t eat his food from being too full.

FAQ About Dog Food Toppers

If you’ve never added a topper to your dog’s food, you likely have a lot of questions. Consider the following FAQ to learn more information. 

1. What can I add to my dry dog food for picky eaters?

If your dog is a picky eater, you can add many fresh vegetables, fruits, and meats. Yogurt is also an enticing treat. Make sure any topper is dog-friendly before serving. 

2. What can I put in my dog’s food to make him eat?

Some dogs are naturally pickier, and some get picky because of health issues [2]. If your dog will not eat at all, consult with your vet. Blueberries and peanut butter are perfect additions to entice even the pickiest of eaters. 

3. What can you add to homemade dog food to make it taste better?

If your dog is not enjoying his kibble, you can make it taste better with unsalted, unseasoned broth, fish oil, or olive oil. Each of these will add flavor and proper nutrients. 

4. What can I put on top of dog food?

Meat is always a welcome topping for dog food. Cooked meats like beef and chicken add protein and other nutritional benefits for dogs of all ages. Make sure to cut the meat into small pieces. 

Bottom Line

Some dogs are picky eaters, and feeding them can become frustrating. With the toppers above, you can entice your dog to eat his food and ensure he has the right level of nutrition.